Fixed Term 2 Years
Behavioural Science Practitioner (Public Health – Devon-wide Smokefree Generation)
It’s an exciting time to be joining our Public Health team! As part of the expanded Smokefree Generation programme, we’re investing in a new role to strengthen our evidence-based approach to improving health and wellbeing across Devon. We’re looking for a dynamic and passionate individual to lead on behavioural science within this programme, applying theory to practice in ways that make a real difference.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with expertise in behavioural science who is keen to apply their knowledge to real-world public health challenges. You’ll work collaboratively across a range of specialist programmes, providing expert advice, leadership and support to improve health outcomes and reduce inequalities.
Behavioural Science Practitioner (Public Health – Devon-wide Programmes)
This new role will provide behavioural science leadership across Devon, Plymouth and Torbay, with a particular focus on embedding behavioural approaches into our Smokefree Generation programme. You’ll work strategically with internal colleagues and multi-agency partners to apply behavioural models such as COM-B and EAST, helping to shape and evaluate public health interventions that reflect the needs of our communities.
You’ll generate behavioural insights, translate research into practical recommendations, and support the development of policies and strategies that promote healthier behaviours. A key part of the role will be building capacity across the system — delivering training and supporting colleagues to apply behavioural science principles in their work.
You will also contribute to our tobacco control efforts, building on the successes of the. This includes:
1. Improving clarity and uptake of referral pathways
2. Identifying opportunities for joint projects across the region
3. Aligning work with wider system priorities such as the Cardiovascular Disease prevention programme
4. Supporting implementation of the NHS Treating Tobacco Dependency Programme in local NHS acute and mental health trusts
5. Promoting a positive smokefree culture and championing a focus on health inequalities
We welcome applications from individuals with a strong foundation in behavioural science, including those currently studying for a higher degree in the field.
About you
We are looking for a dynamic and enthusiastic individual with a strong background in behavioural science and its application to public health.
The following skills and attributes would be essential in this role:
6. Expertise in behavioural science theory and models COM-B, EAST)
7. Experience of applying behavioural insights to public health interventions
8. Strong interpersonal, diplomacy and communication skills
9. Partnership working, networking, relationship building skills
10. Experience of working in a complex system
11. Ability to manage competing priorities and multiple projects
12. A commitment to learning, and sharing learning and insight with others
About us
We are a vibrant and award-winning Public Health team within Devon County Council, committed to making a difference to the health and wellbeing of our residents, reducing health inequalities and enabling people to live healthy lives. We are comprised of a team of colleagues from a range of professional backgrounds, and work across the three domains of Public Health: Health Improvement, Health Protection and Healthcare Public Health. You will be welcomed into a positive and supportive environment where there are on-going opportunities for further learning and development.
Additional Information
The interviews for this post are provisionally planned for the week commencing 20 October 2025.
What we’ll offer in return
We are proud to offer an environment that is supportive and rewarding; you will be working as part of a team who are passionate about the work they do to improve the lives of people in Devon. We offer a wide range of opportunities for training and development, as well as some other great benefits:
13. We promote a healthy work-life balance and offer flexible working arrangements to work remotely from home, as well as office working from County Hall in Exeter.
14. A starting annual leave entitlement of 26 days
15. Employee Assistance for the times you may need some support and a variety of employee wellbeing services.
16. Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
17. Cycle to work scheme
If you would like to find out more about public health and this role, please contact Nigel Grimshire on (01392) 385506 or for a friendly chat.
Closing Date: 5th October 2025
How to apply
Please ensure when completing your application form that you provide a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria as described in the person specification of the job description. Applications may not be taken forwards if the supporting statement is not adequately completed.
Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.
Please click Apply Now to see the Job Description.
18. DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our.
19. - The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
20. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
21. This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
22. Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the .
23.